BUFFALO, NY August 2007---Alpha Beta Sigma Sorority, Incorporated announces their 7^th Annual Sickle Cell Walk for Education and Awareness to be held on September 22, 2007 in McCarthy Park.

Sickle Cell Disease is a genetically inherited blood disorder prevalent among people of African, Caribbean, Central/South American, East Indian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Asian and Southeast Asian ancestry.  Support will help provide scholarships for individuals with sickle cell and educate millions about Sickle Cell Disease and how this painful, debilitating disorder affects individuals and their families.

Patients of this disease suffer from symptoms such as stunted growth, stroke, frequent infections, dysfunction or acute failure of the liver or Kidneys, and vision problems. In some cases, beginning as early as the age of 6 months, individuals with sickle cell disease can experience frequent, severe painful episodes (“crisis”) that require multiple hospitalizations for treatment.  It is common to spend weeks, sometimes months in the hospital for excruciating crisis episodes, especially when accompanied by other complications.  Even in the case of adequate medical care, severe disability or death may result in childhood and early adult years.
The Annual Sickle Cell walk was founded by the ladies of Alpha Beta Sigma Sorority Incorporated, a non-profit organization founded at the State University of New York at Buffalo. In 1999 as sophomore college students, the ladies of Alpha Beta Sigma learned that the young daughter of a fellow classmate suffered from Sickle Cell Disease. After researching the statistics and facts behind the disease they chose to focus their local and National philanthropic efforts on Sickle Cell awareness and fundraising for the cure. Since their inception this organization has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and families living with Sickle Cell Disease, through education, advocacy and support interactions. The walk began in 2000 and continues to be a success and it has raised approximately $25,000 with the help of local community leaders, local businesses and the Buffalo college community. With the strides that have been made, in 2001 the City of Buffalo declared September 15 “Sickle Cell Awareness Day” on behalf of Alpha Beta Sigma Sorority, Incorporated.

Sickle cell disease is a global health problem. In the United States it is estimated that over 70,000 people have sickle cell disease. About 1,000 babies are born with the disease each year in America. Come with your family and friends to McCarthy Park on Saturday September 22, 2007 at 10am to register for the walk. Join Alpha Beta Sigma Sorority, Inc. in bringing awareness to the cause and helping raise funds for a cure, all in efforts to “Break the Sickle Cycle”.

During Alpha Beta Sigma's Second Annual Sickle Cell Walk of WNY the sorority was presented with a proclamation from the City of Buffalo. Council Woman Betty J. Grant presented a plaque to the women of Alpha Beta Sigma Sorority, Inc.. The plaque states that in recognition of our work in the community and in honor of Alpha Beta Sigma Sorority Incorporated, the city has officially declared Sept 14th "Sickle Cell Awareness Day" in Buffalo, NY.

Passing the Crown